The Commission on Higher Education in Region 7 (Ched 7) announced that 11 schools in Central Visayas have submitted applications for a tuition and other school fees (TOSF) increase for the academic year (AY) 2024-2025. This group includes seven institutions based in Cebu.
Maria Antonette Reyes, an Education Program Specialist at Ched 7, revealed on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, that some of these institutions had previously raised their fees for the current academic year (AY 2023-2024) and are seeking another increase for the upcoming year. “Based on the applications to increase TOSF for AY 2024-2025 received by this office to date, there are institutions with increases in TOSF for AY 2023-2024 that also applied for an increase in TOSF for AY 2024-2025,” Reyes said.
The schools in Cebu that have applied for the tuition hike are the Cebu Institute of Technology University, Asian College of Technology (ACT), ACT International Education Foundation, University of San Jose-Recoletos, St. Louise de Marillac College of Bogo, University of San Carlos, and University of Cebu College of Criminology.
In addition to the Cebu-based schools, four other institutions in the region have also sought approval for fee increases. These are STI College-Dumaguete City, Central Philippine Nazarene College, Colegio de San Antonio de Padua, and Silliman University.
The proposed fee increases have sparked discussions among stakeholders, including parents, students, and educators. Some argue that the hike is necessary to improve the quality of education and maintain school facilities, while others worry about the financial burden it places on families already struggling with economic challenges.
Reyes emphasized that the applications are still under review, and Ched 7 will conduct thorough evaluations to determine the necessity and reasonableness of the proposed increases. The commission’s assessment process includes consultations with student representatives and other stakeholders to ensure transparency and fairness.
Tuition hikes in private educational institutions often follow trends of rising operational costs, faculty salaries, and investments in educational resources. However, Ched 7 remains committed to balancing these needs with the financial capacity of students and their families.
As the new academic year approaches, the final decision on these applications will be closely watched by the educational community in Central Visayas. The outcome will not only impact the immediate financial plans of students and their families but also set a precedent for future tuition and fee adjustments in the region.